Filipino-American singer Jessica Sanchez admitted that she is still in disbelief after emerging as the winner of the 20th season of America’s Got Talent. In an Instagram Live she did after the announcement, she expressed how grateful she is for everyone that made it possible for her to win–– from the judges to the supporters who voted for her.
Jessica took the final stage with her own rendition of Bruno Mars and Lady Gaga’s hit song, "Die With A Smile,” which earned her a standing ovation from all of the judges.
READ: Jessica Sanchez wins America's Got Talent
“I can’t believe what just happened. This is crazy,” she said.
The singer made sure to thank Sofia Vergara, who pushed the golden buzzer and believed in her from the first day of her auditions in the prestigious talent competition.
“Sofia, she’s probably not watching this but I would not… I feel like she really helped me get this far with the golden buzzer. I mean, she really made that moment for me so I can’t thank her enough,” she shared.
Jessica gave praise to everyone behind the cameras, her fellow contestants who became her friends, and the other judges who were gracious to her. She revealed how much she also wanted to sing in front of Simon Cowell ever since she was a little girl.
The AGT winner maintained that she didn’t believe that things were going to go her way that night but is grateful that it did. She recalled having doubts in entering the competition as she had her share of heartbreaks from competitions several years ago.
“When I first decided to audition, you know I haven’t really been doing a lot of music. I was just like, you know what, I want to try this again and I felt really peaceful about it. Let me give it another shot and it was really scary for me. As you guys know, I’ve done this before and I feel like I failed in the past. I failed you guys and so coming back was really scary,” she admitted.
READ: Jessica Sanchez stuns ‘AGT’ finals with soaring performance of 'Die With A Smile'
Despite this, her husband made sure that she pushed through and assured her that this is an opportunity that she shouldn’t miss. It was then she realized that she could be an inspiration for many others who want to try again.
“I just took the leap of faith and did the audition and I got so many comments that it inspired so many people to pursue their dreams again. That is the reason why I wanted to get back to music is to use this gift to inspire others. I’m so happy that I was able to do that from the beginning,” she expressed.
She then made sure to show her love towards everyone that supported her from day one.
“Really, you’ve been helping me get back up and just believing in myself that I’m here for a reason… I honestly cannot believe that I am the winner–– it’s insane. I’m still in so much shock,” she maintained.
Meanwhile, Jessica revealed that they’ll be driving back to Texas since she can’t fly due to her pregnancy. She shared will be preparing for the coming of her baby.
“I just can’t wait to share the next chapter with you guys. You guys have been there from the beginning, really. Since I was 10, I just can’t wait to continue this journey with you guys. Thank you again so much. I love every single one of you from the bottom of my heart,” she ended.